Berlin First Baptist Church in Berlin, Maryland, hosted its inaugural Vacation Bible School last summer for individuals with special needs. It was a huge success, receiving tremendous feedback from students and parents. On March 7, the church held a follow-up activity that was also extremely well-received: “Pajama Jam.”
Pajama-clad attendees, from toddlers to those in their 20s, arrived at the church, some carrying dolls or stuffed animals, ready for fun. A few parents and caregivers stayed, but most dropped their kids off with their “buddies” while they enjoyed a time of respite, knowing their children were in a safe place.
BFBC members volunteered, some as buddies, and many served food and guarded doors. “It was great, and it was impactful for everyone, but especially for the kids,” said Brad Diehl, pastor of BFBC.
How it began
The pajama party was the brainchild of Sydney, a young adult with intellectual disabilities who recently began attending the church with her parents, Todd and Melanie. Brad’s wife, Shannon, and Melanie, organized the pajama party, but Sydney suggested it, named it, and chose the activities. “She also picked the food! We had a cereal and nacho bar,” Shannon said, adding that it was very popular.
Sydney also named the church’s disability ministry — ‘Finding Friends and Individuals with Needs and Disabilities.”
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Sharon Mager and originally published by the Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware.
